MANY cases referred to Andrew
are frequently in a far advanced state of deterioration, often as the last
hope before euthanasia.
By outlining the sequence of events within the foot
during an acute attack, and the potential mechanical after effects, he
explains his treatment methodology, why he developed the Imprint Shoe and how
it can benefit the horse.
Laminitis is a major vascular crisis that results in inflammation and
weakening of the laminal structures and bonds within the hoof. The damage to
the hoof tissue can be severe and may cause rotation and sinking of the pedal
bone (P3).
Possible symptoms include:
n Difficulty in walking and turning
n Standing awkwardly with more weight on hind legs,
while
shifting weight from one foot to another
n Hooves which feel warm to touch with increased
digital artery pulse rate
n A depression felt at the coronary border
Internally the blood supply to the hoof has been
disturbed through a laminitic trigger factor that affects the horse’s
metabolism. This may be caused by diet, toxaemia, stress, hoof concussion or,
another condition for example Equine Cushing’s Disease. As a result of
metabolic disturbance, blood vessels become constricted, reducing oxygen and
other nutrients to the hoof and laminal tissues.
The laminal bond becomes damaged and weakened and pulls
away from the hoof wall.
P3 is no longer supported by laminal structure and
begins to rotate and descend towards the sole. The tissue in the sole of the
foot becomes compressed, more blood vessels collapse leading to further
crushing and subsequent infection.
Once laminal breakdown has occurred, these lamellae will
not reattach nor will P3 be pushed back into position. If the foot is to
recover, the detached horn must grow out and be trimmed away.
As long as P3 is supported from below, and there is no
permanent vascular damage, new horn derived from the papillae at the coronary
border will grow down in alignment, and new lamellar attachment will be
established as the new horn surrounds P3 to the ground border.
Immediate treatment
Immediate action is vital to recovery and pain
management.
Ideally we apply the Imprint First support shoe to
alleviate further damage from nailing before, there is any visible
displacement of P3. Whether the horse’s feet make a full recovery or are
permanently damaged or lost may depend on how soon supportive treatment is
initiated. Laminitis is a complex multi-factorial disease - even when all the
boxes have been ticked some cases frustratingly and sadly do not respond –
some ponies with Cushing’s disease inexplicably suffer recurring acute attacks
with no apparent dietary or management changes.
These are systemically sick animals, and although diet,
drug, exercise and farriery management are just as
important and will help, this does not guarantee recovery. Experience has
shown that the degree of severity of the case determines the time of recovery,
which is logical.
